Gone are the days of being restricted to our loungerooms, dressing up only to sit on the couch due to COVID. However, we aren’t saying goodbye to our wardrobes of loungewear and cosy clothing just yet, instead elevating it to be wearable in and out of the house.
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Comfycore rose to popularity in the midst of global COVID restrictions. Now that autumn and winter are well on their way, you will catch us embracing this cosy aesthetic in our every day dressing.
“Comfycore’ is the ideal aesthetic to sport in the cooler months,” THE ICONIC‘s Head of Style, Nicole Adolphe, advised.
“This trend allows you to build up your collection of statement pieces while allowing you to dress down in other aspects. It is also really popular in Europe and often entails pairing oversized wool coats – or a trench coat – with skin-hugging long sleeve tops and track pants, and designer shoes and accessories.”
The look is a favourite of sartorial sweethearts everywhere; keep an eye out for this elevated yet laidback aesthetic on the upcoming runways of Afterpay Australian Fashion Week. Local labels like St Agni, Maggie Marilyn, Gary Bigeni and Henne often explore this aesthetic throughout their collections.
“Australians truly are known for their laid-back lifestyle so I’d also expect to see other designers showcasing some more relaxed soft tailoring, lightweight trenches that can be worn back with loungewear and matching sets in lightweight linens,” says Nicole.
Expert tips to nail the comfycore aesthetic
Elevated loungewear along with oversized cardigans, puffer jackets, puffy accessories, cargo pants (which we have already seen storm social media) and even maxi denim skirts are the pieces to reach for to nail this look.
Layer your pieces for warmth and ultimate cosy vibes, and dress them up with the addition of a pair of kitten heels or pointed toe flats for a more elevated look.
“The art of dressing up an outfit really is embedded in accessories,” Nicole observes. “You can make any garment look expensive by pairing it with some key statement pieces that add a ‘wow’ factor to the ensemble.”
If you’re worried about looking slobby or underdressed while trying out this more laidback vibe, Nicole advises to ensure pieces “look relatively new.”
She adds: “And, it’s so important to iron your clothes before you leave the house!”
If you’re ready and raring to try your hand at this alluring aesthetic this autumn and winter, read on to find our favourite inspired pieces that you can add to your wardrobe.
The best comfy clothes to add to your autumn and winter wardrobe in 2023
Sade Baggy, $189.95, The Iconic
A pair of baggy laid-back jeans is a must for comfycore. Although jeans and comfort rarely come hand in hand, a looser style like the Sade silhouette from Neuw feels so comfortable yet has structure for a level of elevation.
Quarter socks, $24, Paire
Socks may seem basic enough, but a high-quality pair can make a world of difference. These luxurious socks from Paire are made from Australia Merino wool and organic cotton, leaving your feet cushioned and cosy all day long. Plus when wearing socks and sandals (aka the staple comfycore footwear combo) a stylish pair of socks is a must.
Pebble Zadie knit cardigan, $199, Maxted Clothing
Zip-up cardigans are a piece to watch. They instantly elevate any outfit whilst remaining comfortable and laid back. Pair with jeans and sneakers and layer an oversized puffy coat for maximum comfort.
Ally ruched slouchy bag, $93, Charles & Keith
Slouched silhouettes have been all the rage for the past couple of seasons and we still can’t get enough. Add a pop of colour to even the chillest of ‘fits and still create a laidback yet fashion-forward vibe.
Cropped puffer jacket, $69.99, Cotton On
A puffer jacket is a must to fight against winter winds and almost epitomises the comfycore aesthetic. This glossier finish of the jacket elevates and adds a level of interest to the look.
Mini Ugg low cut boots, $105 (usually $165), Ugg Express
We’ve seen them on the feet of celebrities and they truly have been the shoe du jour. These mini uggs are high on our wish list for the coming cooler months. Pair them with oversized jeans and a hoodie layered under a coat to look effortlessly cosy.
Dazie On Repeat coat, $119.99, THE ICONIC
A oversized coat is not only a winter essential but a core piece of the comfycore wardrobe. Throw it over a tracksuit set to add some warmth as well as instantly elevating the entire ‘fit.
Bershka straight leg cargo pants, $54, ASOS
Cargo pants are the trend to watch. Incorporate them into your comfycore wardrobe for a comfortable pant with edge and style.
Aere Crochet knit jumper, $140, THE ICONIC
Made from sustainable organic cotton, this sheer jumper is perfect for layering during colder months.
Oversized faux fur clutch, $115, COS
Don’t stop the cosiness at your clothes. This adorable faux fur clutch epitomises comfy, cosy vibes. Made from recycled faux fur, the bold orange hue adds a pop to an otherwise simple look.
Amalie The Label Monimonie trench coat, $139.95, Showpo
If there’s ever a coat to add to your wardrobe it’s a trench. This oversized style with a tie waist belt and long collar adds a certain refinement to a laid-back look.
Willow slides, $129, Hommey.
The most stylish slippers you’ve ever seen. Why sacrifice your feets comfort and warmth for style, with these you don’t have to!
574 Core sneakers, $160, New Balance
Comfortable and chic, the New Balance 574 core sneakers are an unassuming favourite of fashion fanatics. Wear them with suit or track pants and they’ll always look stylish.
Tommy Hilfiger Quilted Sorona short shacket, $159 (usually $399), THE ICONIC
Combining the winter trend of quilted pieces and shackets, this army green oversized piece from Tommy Hilfiger has us in love. Just like wearing a blanket (only chic)!
Cotton fleece jogger, $124 and pullover hoodie, $130, Skims
Invest in a high-quality and well-tailored tracksuit set like this heather grey set from Kim Kardashian’s Skims. Follow Nicole Adlophe’s advice and ensure to keep it well maintained so you don’t look slobby.
Tate gold ring, $95, Arms of Eve
Add some bold, gold jewellery for an easy way to elevate a laidback outfit. This gold vintage style ring makes a statement with minimal effort.
0On The Fly sunglasses, $95, Quay
The final piece of any outfit is a good pair of shades. We love this green pair of aviators from Quay that add some colour.
LEAD IMAGE: Getty /Jeremy Moeller
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